All-new but yet to arrive stateside, the latest R model is faster and more fuel efficient

• New Volkswagen Golf R features 296hp, new suspension, stability control and improved exhaust design

• Golf R will be on sale in Europe towards the end of 2013

• Volkswagen claims Golf R is 18% more fuel efficient

• Accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.9 sec with DSG

Even though Volkswagen recently released a hot new hatch - the 210hp GTI, the German automaker is not resting on its laurels. VW is continuing its product offensive with the Golf R, which is regarded as the most powerful of the Golf variants. The all-new Volkswagen Golf Mk7 is more powerful than ever. Its newly designed 2.0L TSI engine is capable of producing 296hp delivered at 5,500 rpm - however, it has yet to arrive in the U.S., and will be on sale in Europe towards the end of 2013.

According to VW, the new Golf R is 30hp stronger than the previous model, but up to 18% more fuel efficient, with fuel consumption of the manual Golf R improved from 28 mpg to 33 mpg. With manual transmission, the Golf R accelerates from 0-62 mph in a claimed 5.3 sec (an 0.4 sec improvement over previous model) with a top speed of 155mph. With the DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, the car reaches 62 mph in 4.9 sec. This turbocharged car is fast! It makes the previous R model, which accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.6 sec seem like a slug.

Some features, such as the all-wheel drive system remain the same. Yet, there are also plenty of new features, like a new suspension, and a stability control system, which can be deactivated for track driving. The suspension has been improved via a new “progressive” variable ratio steering rack.

The exhaust placement is all-new for the Golf R. It now boasts four chrome tail pipes instead of the dual center exhaust the 2012 model featured.

The vehicle comes standard with newly designed 18” “Cadiz” aluminum-alloy wheels optional 19” aluminum-alloy wheels available – that compliment the specially crafted side skirts. Also distinguishing this latest R model is a front bumper with larger air inlets and daytime LED running lights integrated into the Bi-Xenon headlight housings. At the rear, smoked LED taillights, an “R” design diffuser and the four chrome tailpipes differentiate it from the past model. The Golf R will be released in two- and four-door forms.